Technology firm Donut Lab has released new testing data demonstrating the resilience and reliability of its innovative Donut Battery solid-state battery.

To ensure independent verification, Donut Lab is working with Finland’s renowned VTT Technical Research Centre to measure the performance of its production-ready solid-state battery.

The latest results, published in early March, highlight two key capabilities: strong performance under extreme heat and stable energy retention over extended periods—helping address doubts about the technology’s true battery characteristics.

Together, the tests suggest the Donut Battery could offer a safer and more durable alternative to traditional EV battery chemistries.

Exceptional Performance in Extreme Heat

The second round of testing evaluated how the Donut Battery performs in very high temperatures—conditions that typically challenge conventional lithium-ion cells.

Traditional batteries rely on liquid electrolytes that can become unstable when temperatures exceed about 60–70°C. Heat accelerates internal chemical reactions, which can damage cells, shorten lifespan, and in severe cases trigger thermal runaway.

The Donut Battery’s solid-state architecture eliminates flammable liquid electrolytes, allowing it to operate at significantly higher temperatures.

During testing, a battery cell was mounted on an aluminum profile with a steel plate applying light pressure to stabilize the cell and reduce hot spots. Engineers then measured capacity at progressively higher temperatures.

The procedure included:

– A baseline capacity measurement at room temperature
– Heating the test chamber to 80°C and repeating the discharge test
– Cooling and recharging the battery
– Raising the chamber temperature to 100°C for further testing

Donut Lab says the results were striking.

At 80°C, the battery delivered up to 110% of its nominal capacity with improved efficiency compared with room temperature. This improvement was attributed to lower internal resistance at higher temperatures, reducing voltage drop during discharge.

Even at 100°C, the battery maintained around 107% capacity, while still charging back to its original voltage without degradation. Engineers reported that the battery’s active materials remained fully functional despite the external pouch losing vacuum at that temperature.

According to Donut Lab’s CTO, the cell maintained normal operation and showed no visible damage after the tests—demonstrating strong thermal stability.

Third Test Confirms It’s a True Battery

A separate independent test released a week later addressed speculation that the Donut Battery might behave more like a supercapacitor than a traditional battery.

Supercapacitors are known for rapid charging and discharging but lose their stored energy quickly when idle. To verify the Donut Battery’s characteristics, researchers conducted a charge-retention experiment.

The procedure was straightforward:

– The battery underwent a standard capacity test
– It was then charged to about 50% capacity
– The cell remained connected to a testing system that measured voltage every 10 seconds
– After 10 days, the battery was discharged to determine remaining energy

The data showed the battery’s voltage stabilized during the first 10 hours after charging and remained largely stable for the remainder of the testing period. A final capacity measurement confirmed that the small voltage drop matched the expected energy loss for a typical battery.

If the device had been a supercapacitor, the stored energy would have declined far more quickly and in a nearly linear fashion.

The full VTT test report can be downloaded from the I Donut Believe website.

Implications for Electric Vehicles

Donut Lab says the tests support its claim that the Donut Battery is the world’s first solid-state battery ready for production vehicles.

If the technology scales successfully, its characteristics could offer several advantages for electric vehicles:

– Improved safety due to the absence of flammable liquid electrolytes
– Better performance at high temperatures, reducing cooling requirements
– Stable energy storage, confirming conventional battery behavior

While commercial deployment timelines remain unclear, the results suggest solid-state designs like the Donut Battery could play a significant role in the next generation of EV powertrains.

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Renault Group has introduced futuREady, a new long-term strategy designed to strengthen its position as a leading European automaker while accelerating electrification, digital innovation, and global expansion.

The plan builds on the success of the company’s earlier Renaulution strategy launched in 2021, which helped restore Renault’s competitiveness through clear brand positioning and an aggressive product renewal program that delivered 32 new models in five years.

With futuREady, Renault aims to become the benchmark European carmaker globally, supported by four pillars: growth ready, tech ready, excellence ready, and trust ready.

36 New Models Planned by 2030

A major component of the strategy is an expanded product offensive. Renault Group plans to launch 36 new models worldwide by 2030, including 22 models in Europe—16 of them fully electric.
The company’s three core brands will play distinct roles in this expansion:

Renault Brand

The Renault brand will focus on growth through electrification and international expansion.

Key targets include:

– 12 new product launches in Europe
– Expansion of the all-electric lineup using a new EV platform
– Continued use of hybrid technology beyond 2030
– 14 new models for international markets

By 2030, Renault aims to sell over 2 million vehicles annually, with half of those sales coming from outside Europe. The brand also targets 100% electrified sales in Europe and 50% electrified sales globally.

Dacia

Dacia will maintain its reputation for value-focused vehicles while accelerating electrification.

The brand plans to:

– Reach two-thirds electrified sales by 2030
– Expand into the C-segment, expected to represent one-third of total sales
– Increase the number of electric vehicles in its lineup from one to four

Dacia will also continue leveraging its strengths in 4×4 systems, LPG vehicles, and E-Tech hybrid technology.

Alpine

Performance brand Alpine will pursue growth with a new generation of vehicles.

Highlights include:

– A next-generation A110 sports car based on the Alpine Performance Platform
– Expansion through the A290 and A390 electric models
– Exclusive limited-edition vehicles such as the A110 R Ultime

Next-Generation EV Platform With 800V Architecture

Electrification and software development are central to the futuREady plan.

Renault Group is developing a new RGEV Medium 2.0 platform for future electric vehicles in the C-segment and above.

Key features include:

– 800-volt electrical architecture enabling ultra-fast charging in as little as 10 minutes by 2030
– Support for vehicles from B+ to D segments
– Compatibility with multiple battery chemistries
– Up to 750 km WLTP range, or 1,400 km with a range extender

The platform will also integrate cell-to-body battery design, reducing parts by 20% and improving efficiency.

Software-Defined Vehicles and AI Integration

Renault’s next generation of vehicles will rely heavily on software and artificial intelligence.

A centralized Software Defined Vehicle (SDV) architecture will allow 90% of vehicle functions to receive over-the-air updates, faster deployment of new features and integration with a new carOS system developed with Google based on Android.

The technology roadmap also includes the evolution toward Artificial Intelligence Defined Vehicles (AIDV) capable of managing infotainment systems, driver assistance technologies, and vehicle dynamics.

Faster Development and Lower Costs

To remain competitive with global automakers, Renault plans to accelerate product development cycles to around two years.

Operational improvements will rely heavily on digitalization and automation, including an industrial metaverse that acts as a digital twin for factories, 350 humanoid robots performing heavy or repetitive tasks and AI systems monitoring more than 1,000 quality control points.

These measures aim to reduce production costs by 20%, cut factory downtime in half and lower energy consumption by 25%.

Supply chain operations will also be optimized using digital control towers, with a target of reducing logistics costs by 30%.

Customer Experience as a Core Strategy

Renault is placing greater emphasis on customer engagement throughout the entire lifecycle of its vehicles.

The company aims to achieve 80% customer loyalty over a ten-year ownership cycle while positioning its brands among the top three for customer satisfaction.

Digital technologies will play a major role through initiatives such as software-defined retail, which digitizes sales processes and uses a vehicle’s digital twin to streamline operations and reduce distribution costs by 20%.

Global Expansion and Strategic Partnerships

While Europe remains the core market, Renault is strengthening its presence in key growth regions including India, South America, and South Korea.

The company will also continue collaborating with partners including Nissan, Mitsubishi Motors, Volvo Trucks, Ford, and Geely, leveraging its technology and manufacturing capabilities.

By 2030, Renault expects to produce over 300,000 vehicles annually for partner brands across three continents.

Building the Future of European Mobility

With the futuREady strategy, Renault Group is aiming to combine electrification, advanced software, and operational efficiency to compete globally while delivering affordable and sustainable mobility.

The plan positions the company for long-term growth, with a strong focus on electric vehicles, AI-powered development, and customer-centric innovation as the automotive industry continues its rapid transformation.

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Mercedes-AMG has revealed the interior of its upcoming next-generation GT 4-Door Coupe, offering the first detailed look at the brand’s in-house developed electric performance sedan. The new model marks a major milestone for AMG as it prepares to launch its first fully electric vehicle built from the ground up in Affalterbach.

While the exterior and technical specifications are still under wraps, the newly revealed cabin design hints at the high-performance technology and driver-focused philosophy that will define the upcoming electric GT.

A Driver-Focused Cockpit Built for Performance

At first glance, the interior clearly reflects AMG’s mission to blend sports car DNA with grand tourer comfort. The low seating position and driver-oriented layout immediately evoke the feeling of a traditional performance machine rather than a typical EV.

The dashboard features a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster paired with a 14-inch central touchscreen angled toward the driver for better readability and control. An optional 14-inch passenger display adds an extra layer of digital interaction for front-seat occupants.

Unlike the seamless hyperscreens found in some Mercedes models, AMG opted for a layout where each display has a distinct role and dedicated position, reinforcing the cockpit’s performance-focused character.

The system runs on the latest Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) and integrates the newest generation of the MBUX infotainment platform, offering customizable display styles including “AMG Special,” telemetry-focused AMG TRACK PACE, and a classic interface for everyday driving.

AMG RACE ENGINEER: Precision Control for Electric Performance

A centerpiece of the cabin is the AMG RACE ENGINEER control system, which brings advanced driving dynamics directly to the driver through three rotary controls on the center console.

These controls allow instant adjustments to the car’s behavior:

– Response Control – adjusts how quickly the electric motors react to accelerator inputs
– Agility Control – modifies cornering behavior and vertical-axis dynamics
– Traction Control – regulates wheel slip with nine selectable levels

Together, these settings provide direct access to the vehicle’s core performance systems, allowing drivers to tailor the electric powertrain’s behavior to both driving style and road conditions.

Interior Hints at Powerful Electric Hardware

Interestingly, the interior also appears to reveal clues about the GT’s underlying technology. Graphics displayed on the infotainment screen show dual disc-like motor visuals, widely believed to represent axial-flux electric motors.

Axial-flux motors differ from conventional EV motors by arranging the windings in a hub-and-spoke design, allowing for significantly higher power density.

If the production model mirrors the AMG GT XX concept, the electric sedan could feature three axial-flux motors producing up to 1,341 horsepower, potentially enabling a top speed above 200 mph.

Such performance would position the new AMG EV as a serious rival to high-performance electric sedans like the Lucid Air Sapphire.

Promising Range Figures Appear in the Display

Another intriguing detail comes from the instrument cluster’s battery indicator. A display showing 81% battery remaining with an estimated 509 km of range suggests a potential full-battery range of roughly 618 km (384 miles).

While these numbers are not official WLTP or EPA figures, they hint that Mercedes-AMG is aiming to combine supercar performance with long-distance usability.

Premium Materials and Motorsport-Inspired Design

The cabin design combines advanced technology with classic AMG craftsmanship. Carbon fiber trim, satin-silver accents, and galvanized metal elements create a high-tech atmosphere while maintaining a strong performance identity.

The center console features:

– Two wireless smartphone charging pads
– Two illuminated cup holders
– A storage compartment integrated into the armrest

Large round air vents with translucent detailing double as ambient lighting elements, blending digital and mechanical aesthetics.

Sport Seats and Customization Options

Newly developed AMG sport seats offer pronounced bolsters to support aggressive driving. Optional AMG Performance seats add integrated headrests and metal-finished cutouts to emphasize lightweight design.

Buyers will also have access to extensive personalization options through the MANUFAKTUR Exclusive program, which offers bespoke color combinations, materials, and handcrafted interior surfaces.

Panoramic Roof with Illuminated AMG Details

The standard panoramic glass roof enhances the cabin’s sense of space and extends toward the rear window. Equipped with SKY CONTROL technology, the glass can switch between transparent and opaque segments.

At night, the roof transforms into a striking visual element with illuminated AMG emblems and motorsport-inspired lighting patterns that match the interior ambient lighting system.

Rear Seating Designed for Comfort

Despite its sporty focus, the GT 4-Door Coupe remains a practical grand tourer. The rear compartment features two individual contoured seats as standard, with generous legroom thanks to recessed floor sections.

An optional three-passenger rear bench is also available, and the backrests can fold down individually to increase cargo versatility.

Electric AMG Debut Coming Soon

Although Mercedes-AMG has yet to reveal full specifications, the interior preview strongly suggests that the electric GT 4-Door Coupe is nearing its official debut.

With cutting-edge motor technology, advanced software integration, and a cockpit designed for maximum driver engagement, the upcoming AMG EV aims to prove that electrification and high-performance driving can coexist without compromise.

If Mercedes can deliver the performance suggested by these early hints, the next-generation electric GT 4-Door Coupe could become one of the most exciting performance EVs of the decade.

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Ford has unveiled a series of major updates for the popular Ford Puma and the all-electric Ford Puma Gen E, introducing longer driving range, advanced driver-assistance technology, and new connectivity features.

The improvements build on the success of the compact crossover lineup, which helped make the Puma Ford’s best-selling vehicle in Europe in 2025, while the electric Puma Gen-E has already become the UK’s top-selling EV in 2026.

According to Christian Weingaertner, general manager of passenger vehicles at Ford Motor Company Europe, the upgrades respond directly to strong customer demand.

“The love we’ve seen for our Puma and Puma Gen-E across Europe shows we got the formula right,” Weingaertner said. “Now we’re adding even more attractive features, including BlueCruise hands-free highway driving to bring premium technology to the small-car segment.”

Puma Gen-E Gets More Range and Efficiency

Introduced in 2024, the electric Puma Gen-E quickly stood out for its impressive efficiency of 13.1 kWh/100 km and an electric driving range of up to 376 km.

With a newly enhanced battery design, the latest model increases the range to up to 417 km on a full charge, making longer road trips more practical while enabling several days of city driving without recharging.

The improvement further strengthens the Gen-E’s appeal in the highly competitive compact electric SUV segment.

BlueCruise Hands-Free Driving Comes to Puma

One of the biggest updates is the addition of Ford BlueCruise, the brand’s hands-free highway driving technology.

The system enables “hands-off, eyes-on” driving on approved highways, helping reduce driver fatigue during commuting or long motorway journeys.

BlueCruise debuted in Europe in 2023 on the Ford Mustang Mach E and has since expanded to 16 European markets.

Today the system works across more than 135,000 kilometers of designated “Blue Zones” highways, allowing drivers to travel across multiple countries using hands-free driving where permitted.

Ford is also offering flexible ways for customers to access the feature:

– One-Time Purchase for permanent access
– Monthly or annual subscriptions
– Three-month trial included with all BlueCruise-capable Puma models

Premium Audio and Enhanced Connectivity

The updated Puma lineup also introduces a more powerful B&O Premium Audio system. Standard on ST-Line X, ST Powershift, and Puma Gen-E Premium models, the upgraded setup now delivers 650 watts of power, including improved front-door midwoofers for richer sound quality.

Connectivity has also been enhanced with new Premium Connectivity features that allow drivers to access streaming services, in-car games and karaoke functions.

In addition, Connected Navigation uses cloud-based data to help drivers avoid traffic congestion in real time. Both services can be purchased once or accessed through subscription plans.

New Colors and BlueCruise Edition Model

Ford is also expanding customization options with new exterior colors.

The Puma Gen-E now adds Cactus Grey, while the bright Electric Yellow finish becomes available for the standard Puma lineup.

To highlight the new driver-assistance technology, Ford is introducing a special BlueCruise Edition for both models.

Key features include:

– BlueCruise functionality fully unlocked
– Exclusive Vapor Blue exterior paint
– Black 18-inch alloy wheels
– Contrasting black roof and mirror caps
– Interior accents with Nordic Blue detailing
– Standard Premium Connectivity and Connected Navigation
– Upgraded B&O audio system

Availability

The updated Ford Puma and Puma Gen-E compact crossovers are available to order now across Europe, bringing longer electric range, improved technology, and hands-free highway driving to one of Ford’s most popular models.

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Honda is bringing back one of its most recognizable eco-focused nameplates. The Insight, once known as one of the brand’s pioneering hybrid models, is returning in a completely new form—this time as an all-electric crossover SUV.

Unveiled in Japan, the new Insight EV marks a major shift for the historic model, combining its efficiency-focused legacy with Honda’s growing electric vehicle lineup.

From Hybrid Pioneer to Fully Electric

The Insight first debuted in 1999 as Honda’s first mass-produced hybrid vehicle. The original version was a lightweight two-seat hatchback designed primarily to showcase fuel efficiency.

Over the years, the model evolved significantly. Later generations added practicality with a five-seat layout, and the third-generation Insight eventually transformed into a four-door sedan. Honda discontinued the model after the 2022 model year as the company shifted its hybrid strategy toward higher-volume models like the Civic and CR-V.

Now, the Insight name returns—but in a completely different segment.

Insight EV: A New Electric Crossover

The revived Insight will launch as an all-electric crossover SUV, with Honda confirming a WLTC driving range of more than 310 miles (500 km).

While detailed battery specifications haven’t been announced yet, the vehicle is closely related to the e:NS2 electric crossover developed through Honda’s joint venture with Dongfeng in China. That model features a 68.8 kWh battery delivering 339 miles (CLTC) of range, which translates to roughly 240 miles on the EPA cycle.

Power will come from a single front-mounted electric motor producing 200 horsepower and 310 Nm (228 lb-ft) of torque.

Tech-Focused Interior

Inside, the Insight EV adopts a modern, tech-heavy cabin layout similar to many newer electric models.

Key features include:

– 12.8-inch central infotainment touchscreen
– 9.4-inch digital driver display
– Large head-up display
– Multiple drive modes including Sport, Normal, Econ, and Snow

Sport mode is designed to simulate traditional acceleration and deceleration behavior, while Honda’s Active Sound Control system adds artificial sound effects to enhance the driving experience.

Launch Timeline

Honda will begin taking reservations for the Insight EV on March 19, with sales in Japan scheduled to begin in spring 2026.

Although the electric crossover could potentially reach additional global markets, a U.S. launch appears unlikely. The model relies heavily on technology developed for the Chinese market, which may limit its international rollout.

Honda’s Broader EV Strategy

While the Insight EV will debut in Japan, Honda is preparing a separate wave of electric vehicles for North America.

Later this year, the company plans to introduce the first models from its upcoming 0 Series EV lineup, starting with an electric SUV and sedan. These vehicles will be built at Honda’s EV Hub in Ohio and will use the brand’s dedicated electric platform and new operating system.

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Hyundai is scaling back its electric sedan lineup by discontinuing the most affordable versions of the Ioniq 6, just three years after the model first arrived on the market.

Introduced in 2022 and launched as a 2023 model, the Ioniq 6 quickly drew praise from critics for its futuristic design, competitive range, and relatively accessible pricing. However, weakening sales and rising import costs are prompting the South Korean automaker to streamline the lineup.

While the nameplate itself isn’t disappearing entirely, Hyundai will continue offering only the high-performance Ioniq 6 N variant going forward.

Declining Sales and Tariff Pressures

According to industry reports, Hyundai’s decision is driven largely by slowing demand and tariff considerations.

The company sold 10,478 units of the Ioniq 6 in 2025, representing a 15% decline from the 12,264 units delivered in 2024, based on company sales data. At the same time, the model faces higher import tariffs since most units are produced in South Korea and shipped to the U.S.

Combined with changing policy environments and broader market shifts in the EV sector, Hyundai’s move reflects a growing trend among automakers to adjust their electric vehicle strategies.

Affordable Ioniq 6 Versions Disappear

Before the changes, the entry-level Ioniq 6 SE Standard Range started at about $37,850 before taxes and fees, making it one of the more accessible electric sedans in the U.S.

The lineup also included additional trims:

– SE: starting around $42,800
– SEL: starting around $45,600
– Limited: starting around $51,100

With these versions being phased out, consumers looking for a reasonably priced electric sedan lose one of the few alternatives to the Tesla Model 3, which continues to dominate the segment.

The Ioniq 6 N Remains

Although the mainstream trims are being dropped, Hyundai is keeping the performance-focused 2026 Ioniq 6 N in production.

Unlike the more affordable variants, the N model is aimed squarely at enthusiasts seeking sports-car-level performance in an electric sedan.

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 6 N specifications:
• Starting price: around $70,000
• Maximum output: up to 641 horsepower
• Estimated range: about 303 miles
• 0–60 mph: approximately 3.2 seconds

These figures make the Ioniq 6 N one of the most powerful EVs in its class, though its higher price and performance focus mean it’s not designed for mainstream buyers.

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Milence, the joint venture backed by Daimler Truck, TRATON Group and Volvo Group, has opened a new public charging hub for electric trucks in Ghent, marking its fourth location in Belgium.

Strategically positioned near the Schansakker exit on the R4 ring road, the hub aims to support the rapid electrification of freight transport in one of Belgium’s most important industrial and logistics regions.

High-Power Charging for Electric Truck Fleets

Developed in collaboration with the Volvo Group, the Ghent facility is part of a broader effort to accelerate the transition toward zero-emission road transport.

In its first phase, the charging hub features four high-power CCS charging bays capable of delivering up to 400 kW each. The site is designed to provide reliable and convenient charging for electric truck fleets operating along key European freight routes.

Milence also plans to upgrade the hub with Megawatt Charging System (MCS) technology in a future development phase. Once implemented, MCS could enable electric trucks to recharge their batteries in approximately 30 to 45 minutes, significantly reducing downtime for long-haul operations.

The MCS solution is already operational at Milence hubs in Zwolle in the Netherlands, at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges in Belgium, and in Landvetter, Sweden.

Strengthening Europe’s Electric Freight Corridors

Located within the North Sea Port area, the new charging hub enhances connectivity along the TEN-T North Sea–Mediterranean Corridor, one of Europe’s most important logistics routes linking Belgium with major transport hubs in France, the Netherlands, and Germany.

The Ghent facility complements Milence’s expanding charging network in the region, which already includes two hubs in the Port of Antwerp-Bruges and another in Maasmechelen.

Positioned next to the Volvo factory in Ghent, the hub also offers a strategic charging solution for logistics fleets and cross-border freight operators.

Designed for Truck Drivers

Unlike traditional passenger EV charging stations, the Ghent hub is purpose-built for heavy-duty trucks of all brands.

The site features drive-through charging bays, easy highway access, and sanitary facilities to ensure drivers can take comfortable rest breaks while their vehicles charge.

Multiple payment options are available, including contactless payments, e-Mobility Service Provider (eMSP) cards, and the Milence Charge Card.

Competitive Charging Prices

Milence recently introduced a market-based pricing model across its European charging network, aligning tariffs with regional energy costs.

In Belgium, the base charging price dropped to €0.379 per kWh (excluding VAT) starting January 1, 2026. The company says the move aims to improve cost predictability and total cost of ownership for fleet operators transitioning to electric trucks.

Expanding Europe’s Electric Truck Charging Network

As adoption of electric heavy-duty trucks accelerates across Europe, Milence continues to expand its network along key freight corridors.

The new Ghent hub represents another milestone in the company’s corridor-first rollout strategy, which focuses on deploying charging infrastructure along Europe’s busiest transport routes and logistics hubs.

According to Milence CEO Anja van Niersen, Ghent’s strategic role in European logistics makes it an important addition to the network.

Meanwhile, Volvo Group says the project supports its long-term vision of building a more sustainable transport system and strengthening supply chains connected to its truck manufacturing operations.

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A major milestone for North America’s electric vehicle supply chain has arrived as NextStar Energy officially inaugurates its new battery cell manufacturing facility in Windsor, Ontario.

The joint venture between Stellantis and LG Energy Solution marks Canada’s first commercial-scale advanced battery manufacturing operation, strengthening the country’s role in the rapidly expanding electric mobility ecosystem.

A Key Step for Canada’s EV Battery Industry

Located in Windsor, the massive facility spans approximately 4.23 million square feet, making it one of the largest battery manufacturing plants in the region.

Construction began just over three years ago, and the project represents an investment of more than $5 billion CAD. The plant is expected to play a crucial role in supporting the production of next-generation electric vehicles while reinforcing North America’s battery supply chain.

The factory officially began production in November 2025, and in a short period it has already surpassed one million battery cells produced—a clear sign of the operation’s ability to ramp up quickly to meet growing demand.

Beyond Electric Vehicles

While the facility will supply battery cells for electric vehicles, NextStar Energy’s ambitions extend far beyond the automotive sector.

The company is developing advanced battery technologies designed to power a wide range of energy solutions, including:

– Energy storage systems supporting municipal and provincial power grids
– Infrastructure for AI data centers
– E-commerce and digital technology platforms
– Large-scale energy storage supporting renewable power integration

By targeting these emerging sectors, NextStar Energy aims to position itself as a key provider of battery technology powering the next generation of energy-intensive industries.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

The Windsor facility is already making a significant economic impact.

NextStar Energy currently employs around 1,300 workers, with plans to expand to 2,500 direct employees once the plant reaches full production capacity. The expansion will create high-quality manufacturing jobs and help establish Canada as a global hub for advanced battery manufacturing.

The project also strengthens domestic supply chains and supports the broader transition toward clean energy technologies.

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Stellantis is making it easier for businesses to transition to zero-emission mobility. Through its commercial vehicle division, Stellantis Pro One, the automaker has launched a Europe-wide campaign that offers battery-electric vans at the same price as their diesel counterparts.

The initiative directly tackles one of the biggest barriers to electrification for commercial fleets: the upfront purchase cost. By eliminating the price gap, Stellantis aims to accelerate the adoption of electric light commercial vehicles among professional customers across Europe.

Electric Vans Without the Price Premium

The campaign covers a wide range of compact and mid-size electric vans from several Stellantis brands, including:

• Citroën Berlingo
• Citroën Jumpy
• Fiat Professional Doblò
• Fiat Professional Scudo
• Opel Combo
• Opel Vivaro
• Peugeot Partner
• Peugeot Expert

All of these models are available in battery-electric variants, giving businesses a practical alternative to traditional diesel vans without compromising on capability.

Designed for Real-World Business Needs

Stellantis says the electric vans included in the campaign deliver the same operational flexibility that professional users expect from diesel-powered models.

Key specifications include:

– Payload capacity: 800 kg to 1.5 tons
– Driving range: up to 340 km for compact vans
– Driving range: up to 350 km for mid-size vans

This ensures companies can switch to electric power while maintaining the productivity and versatility required for daily operations.

Supporting Fleet Electrification

According to Eric Laforge, Global Senior Vice President at Stellantis Pro One, the campaign is designed to simplify the electrification journey for businesses.

“With this campaign, Stellantis Pro One is taking a concrete step to support professionals at every stage of their electrification journey. By offering battery electric commercial vehicles at the same price as diesel, we are making electric mobility a realistic and accessible option for all professional customers.”

Available Across Europe Until June 2026

The offer is available throughout Europe and will run until June 30, 2026. Stellantis says the initiative further strengthens its role as a partner for businesses looking to reduce emissions and operating costs while transitioning their fleets to electric power.

As regulations tighten and cities increasingly introduce low-emission zones, initiatives like this could significantly accelerate the adoption of electric commercial vehicles among small businesses and large fleet operators alike.

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Tesla has officially increased the price of its recently introduced Cybertruck AWD trim from $59,990 to $69,990.

The 17% price jump comes exactly 10 days after the trim’s debut, following a high-pressure marketing window orchestrated by CEO Elon Musk.

A Launch Strategy That Feeds Itself

When Tesla introduced the new AWD Cybertruck on February 19, the price of $59,990 marked the lowest ever for an electric pickup. This trim offered dual motors, 325 miles of range, adaptive damping, a powered tonneau cover, and bed outlets with Powershare V2X functionality, making it arguably the first Cybertruck that provided real value.

However, within hours of the announcement, Elon Musk made it clear the price wouldn’t last: “Only for the next 10 days.” This created urgency, artificially boosting demand — which Tesla could then point to as justification for the $10,000 price increase.

Delivery estimates quickly slipped from June 2026 to late 2026 and eventually 2027, reinforcing Tesla’s narrative of strong demand. Today, the price has officially risen to $69,990, and the lease option for this trim has been removed.

Comparing AWD to the Old RWD

While the $70,000 sticker price is a steep pill to swallow, the current AWD model remains a significantly better value proposition than the now-discontinued Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) trim that occupied the same price bracket last year.

The previous $69,990 RWD model was widely criticized for its lack of features. The new AWD trim, at essentially the same price point, offers dual motors, all-wheel drive, adaptive damping, and 325 miles of range, making it a far more capable and desirable truck. To compare:

The 2019 Promise vs. Reality

When the Cybertruck was unveiled in 2019, Tesla promised the dual-motor AWD would start at $49,900 with 300 miles of range. Today’s AWD Cybertruck costs about 40% more than that promise, even after accounting for inflation.

The top tri-motor trim, originally promised at $69,900, now sells for $99,990, showing how far Tesla has shifted from its initial pricing plans.

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